Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion
Our Statement of Intent
At Boys & Girls Clubs, we commit ourselves fully to the ongoing work of creating a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive community. We enthusiastically embrace the diversity of Members, communities and employees and seek to do Whatever It Takes to create places where all people feel welcome, equal, heard and valued.
We stand against racial injustice and discrimination of all kinds, including any mistreatment of people based on their race, language, ethnic background, ability, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.
We will base our efforts on the following principles:
We will continually examine our culture to assure that we are meeting every person where they are with a deep and authentic respect for their race, ethnicity, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, and lived experience.
We will examine policies & practices, including hiring, marketing and fundraising practices to ensure that they do not perpetuate inequities.
We will further diversify our leadership team, staff and volunteers so that our Members are represented at every level of our organization.
We will support our Members through intentional training for our staff including trauma-informed youth development practices, supporting mental health & wellness of marginalized youth.
We will intentionally embed the lens of diversity, equity and inclusion into all program activities, directly engaging our Club families in the planning process, and we will include positive self-image and social advocacy themes into programming for all ages.
We will allocate resources to create equitable opportunities for Members whenever possible; whether through financial aid or specialized programs and services to remove barriers and create equity.
We acknowledge that this is a process and not a destination and will remain committed to regularly evaluate and redefine our Statement and our efforts to make progress.